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PACs

Product Announcement from Opto 22

Why should you be interested in PACs?

The answer lies in the demands of today's industrial applications, where interfacing with signals from sensors and actuators is now just the starting point. Advanced control features, network connectivity, integration of remote and distributed subsystems, device interoperability, and enterprise-wide data integration are all requirements you may be called upon to meet.

PACs differ from the hardware you're probably using now in several ways. In effect, PACs expand the capabilities of hardware you're using now by merging features of more traditional PLC , DCS (Distributed Control System) , and RTU systems, plus adding some capabilities from personal computers.

So, what is a PAC?

ARC defines a PAC as having the following characteristics:

• Operate using a single platform in multiple domains, including logic, motion, drives, and process control. Because a single PAC can do all types of control, monitoring, and data acquisition, system expansion and change are simplified.

• Employ a single development platform using common tagging and a single database for development tasks across a range of disciplines. The same software is used for all development; this IDE (Integrated development environment) reduces development time.

• Tightly integrate controller hardware and software. When hardware and software are designed together, systems are easier and faster to build. Some PAC manufacturers, such as Opto 22, include surprisingly capable software with a PAC purchase.

• Be programmable using software tools capable of designing control programs to support a process that "flows" across several machines or units, integrating multiple domains into a single system.

• Operate on open, modular architectures that mirror industry applications, from machine layouts in factories to unit operation in process plants. Since each installation is different, the system must be able to add or change modules easily.

• Provide efficient processing and I/O scanning. A PAC's first duties are efficient monitoring, control, and data acquisition. Traditional continuous scanning, for example, is often less efficient than exception-based scanning performed only when control logic dictates.

Key Advantages of a PAC

• A single controller with integrated software handles multiple functions across multiple domains.

• Complex and changing requirements can be met with little additional cost.